What you are watching during the lockdown reveals your state of mind

If social media is a barometer to gauge people’s interests during the lockdown, you will notice that the needle of entertainment oscillates from spiritual shows like Ramayan and Mahabharat to pandemic films like Contagion and some outrageous shows. This oscillation, state mental health experts, is an outcome of our mental and emotional condition. Says psychiatrist Dr Sagar Mundada, “The entertainment we veer towards is a combination of our basic personality and our state of mind. When you cannot control the situation, you try to control your mind.” So, let’s look at where we fit with our choice of entertainment in this current scenario...

While spiritual shows are high on nostalgia, these are also seen by some as a coping mechanism. Says Ritesh Shah, an executive with a travel firm, “Watching shows like Ramayan and Mahabharat gives me peace at a time of upheaval.” Anwesha Mukherjee, an advertising professional, adds, “I’m seeking answers, so I’ve been veering towards films and documentaries on viruses. The current situation has made me curious to know more.”

Some choose to find comfort in feel-good films and shows. And, there is a reason if you find yourself seeking out shows and films that make you smile. Rhea Dsouza Dcosta, a homemaker, shares, I have suddenly started enjoying romcoms since they have happy-endings and give us hope in these bleak times.”

Many are turning to horror shows and movies to get their thrills. Ritu Gidwani, marketing executive, shares, “I’ve been watching psychological thrillers or downright scary films like House on Haunted Hill, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and World War Z. No matter how bad things are onscreen, you know they will eventually end. And that’s unlike the harsh reality unfolding currently.”

Beating stress with laughter

Have you wondered why stand-up artistes have gone on an overdrive with their shows online? It’s because there is a demand for it. Says Dr Mundada, “Humour is a good coping mechanism to beat stress. And then there are also those who have eccentric interests, and rely on the bizarre to minimise the severity of this situation.” IT professional Rashi Sharma adds, “I’ve been restless, and shows with bizarre themes have turned out to be just the antidote for it. I’ve also been switching to mindless social media videos. I guess it’s my way of coping with all the uncertainty around us.”